The Chewelah Farmers Market was selected as the Best Small Farmers Market in Washington by the board of the Washington State Farmers Market Association at the 2011 WSFMA Annual Conference held January 28-29 in Leavenworth, WA. The trophy was presented to Chewelah Farmers Market President Nils Johnson by Dan Newhouse, Director of the Washington State Department of Agriculture. “This is very exciting for our market!” said Johnson when accepting the award. Also representing the Chewelah Farmers Market at the conference were Shelly Stevens, Market Promotion; Mary Ann Gehman, Farmers Market Café; and Meadow Plunkett; local grower/vendor. To be nominated for this honor, the farmers market had to be in good standing with the WSFMA, exemplify a high level of connecting farmers to consumers, demonstrate exceptional diligence in representing the best interest of the community and promote and support the WSFMA organization.
The Chewelah Farmers Market is starting its 4th year of service to the community of Chewelah and surrounding areas. The market has grown steadily, providing a way for local growers and producers to connect directly with the consumer and make available locally produced, fresh food.
The Washington State Farmers Market Association supports and promotes vibrant and sustainable farmers markets in Washington State. Their vision is to have a thriving and sustainable farmers market within reach of every resident in Washington State. Washingtonians understand the importance of farmers markets in developing healthy communities and a sustainable local food system. WSFMA is a national leader in the movement to increase access to local foods through farmers markets. There are over 125 member markets of the WSFMA.